U.S. orbital launch provider Rocket Lab has signed an agreement with Circle Aerospace for ten dedicated Electron launches, with the first launch scheduled to lift off in Q4 2019.

Headquartered in Dubai, Circle Aerospace is a new turnkey launch brokerage and satellite development company serving to catalyze the growth of a commercial space and smallsat industry across the United Arab Emirates and wider Gulf Cooperation Council nations (GCC). Circle Aerospace offers full-spectrum, bespoke orbital solutions, including the design, build, and launch of payloads for customers worldwide.

The agreement was signed during the 2018 Small Satellite conference held in Logan, Utah. The agreement has Rocket Lab selected as the sole launch provider and primary provider of associated mission services for Circle Aerospace clients. Circle Aerospace missions will primarily launch from Rocket Lab’s private orbital launch site, Launch Complex-1, in New Zealand. Launches may also be conducted from Rocket Lab’s US launch site, as required.

The payloads on these missions, as per all Electron missions launched from New Zealand, will undergo a payload approval process with the New Zealand and U.S. governments.

Executive Comments

Rocket Lab founder and CEO Mr. Peter Beck said that the company is delighted to be partnering with Circle Aerospace to provide their small satellite customers with rapid, repeatable and reliable access to orbit. The space industry is experiencing significant growth globally and Rocket Lab welcomes the opportunity to support Circle Aerospace in developing the industry in the UAE and GCC regions.

Mr. Mohammed Al Saif, President and CEO of Circle Aerospace, added that the company's partnership with Rocket Lab will provide the region with frequent and dedicated access to orbit, as well as satellite build solutions. Circle Aerospace is in an exciting era for small satellites that will see significant developments in innovation, research, education and exploration in the very near future. Circle Aerospace is in a strong position to support the local market in achieving this goal.